System and method for playing an interactive game

ABSTRACT

An interactive treasure hunt game is provided. Game participants receive a card, map and/or identification badge configured with an RFID tag, bar-code or a magnetic “swipe” strip or the like. The RFID tag or other identifying device is used to store certain information identifying each play participant and/or describing certain powers or abilities possessed by an imaginary character that the card may represent. Players advance in the game by finding clues and solving various puzzles presented by the game. Players may also gain (or lose) certain attributes, such as magic skills, magic strength, fighting ability, various spell-casting abilities, etc. All of this information is preferably stored on the RFID tag or card so that the character attributes may be easily and conveniently transported to other similarly-equipped play facilities, computer games, video games, home game consoles, hand-held game units, and the like. In this manner, the game can seamlessly transcend from one play environment and/or entertainment medium to the next.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of and claims benefit of priorityunder 35 U.S.C. §120 of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/183,592,filed Jul. 18, 2005, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference inits entirety and which is a continuation of and claims benefit ofpriority under 35 U.S.C. §120 of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/410,583, filed Apr. 7, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,967,566, issued Nov.22, 2005, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety and which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/370,568, filed Apr. 5, 2002.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to children's games and, in particular, toa live-action interactive adventure game and play system utilizing radiofrequency transponders and transceivers to provide a unique interactivegame play experience.

2. Description of the Related Art

Games, play structures and other similar entertainment systems are wellknown for providing play and interaction among children and adults. Awide variety of commercially available play toys and games are alsoknown for providing valuable learning and entertainment opportunitiesfor children, such as role playing, reading, memory stimulation, tactilecoordination and the like.

However, there is always a demand for more exciting and entertaininggames and toys that increase the learning and entertainmentopportunities for children and stimulate creativity and imagination.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a unique system and method of multi-mediagame play carried out utilizing an interactive “wand” and/or othertracking/actuation device to allow play participants to electronicallyand “magically” interact with their surrounding play environment(s). Theplay environment may either be real or imaginary (i.e. computer/TVgenerated), and either local or remote, as desired. Optionally, multipleplay participants, each provided with a suitable “wand” and/or trackingdevice, may play and interact together, either within or outside one ormore play environments, to achieve desired goals or produce desiredeffects within the play environment.

In accordance with one embodiment the present invention provides aninteractive play system and wand toy for enabling a trained user toelectronically send and receive information to and from other wand toysand/or to and from various transceivers distributed throughout a playfacility and/or connected to a master control system. The toy wand orother seemingly magical object is configured to use a send/receive radiofrequency communication protocol which provides a basic foundation for acomplex, interactive entertainment system to create a seemingly magicinteractive play experience for play participants who possess and learnto use the magical wand toy.

In accordance with another embodiment the present invention provides aninteractive play structure in the theme of a “magic” training center forwould-be wizards in accordance with the popular characters andstorylines of the children's' book series “Harry Potter” by J. K.Rowling. Within the play structure, play participants learn to use a“magic wand” and/or other tracking/actuation device. The wand allowsplay participants to electronically and “magically” interact with theirsurrounding play environment simply by pointing or using their wands ina particular manner to achieve desired goals or produce desired effectswithin the play environment. Various receivers or transceivers aredistributed throughout the play structure to facilitate such interactionvia wireless communications.

In accordance with another embodiment the present invention provides awand actuator device for actuating various interactive play effectswithin an RFID-compatible play environment. The wand comprises anelongated hollow pipe or tube having a proximal end or handle portionand a distal end or transmitting portion. An internal cavity may beprovided to receive one or more batteries to power optional lighting,laser or sound effects and/or to power long-range transmissions such asvia an infrared LED transmitter device or RF transmitter device. Thedistal end of the wand is fitted with an RFID (radio frequencyidentification device) transponder that is operable to providerelatively short-range RF communications (<60 cm) with one or morereceivers or transceivers distributed throughout a play environment. Thehandle portion of the wand is fitted with optional combination wheelshaving various symbols and/or images thereon which may be rotated toproduce a desired pattern of symbols required to operate the wand orachieve one or more special effects.

In accordance with another embodiment the present invention provides anRFID card or badge intended to be affixed or adhered to the front of ashirt or blouse worn by a play participant while visiting an RF equippedplay facility. The badge comprises a paper, cardboard or plasticsubstrate having a front side and a back side. The front side may beimprinted with graphics, photos, or any other information desired. Thefront side may include any number of other designs or informationpertinent to its application. The obverse side of the badge containscertain electronics comprising a radio frequency tag pre-programmed witha unique person identifier number (“UPIN”). The UPIN may be used toidentify and track individual play participants within the playfacility. Optionally, each tag may also include a unique groupidentifier number (“UGIN”) which may be used to match a defined group ofindividuals having a predetermined relationship.

In accordance with another embodiment the present invention provides anelectronic treasure hunt game. Game participants receive a card, mapand/or identification badge configured with an RFID tag, bar-code or amagnetic “swipe” strip or the like. The RFID tag or other identifyingdevice is used to store certain information identifying each playparticipant and/or describing certain powers or abilities possessed byof an imaginary role-play character that the card represents. Playersadvance in the game by finding clues and solving various puzzlespresented. Players may also gain (or lose) certain attributes, such asmagic skills, magic strength, fighting ability, various spell-castingabilities, etc. All of this information is preferably stored on the RFIDtag or card so that the character attributes may be easily andconveniently transported to other similarly-equipped play facilities,computer games, video games, home game consoles, hand-held game units,and the like. In this manner, an imaginary role-play character iscreated and stored on a card that is able to seamlessly transcend fromone play medium to the next.

For purposes of summarizing the invention and the advantages achievedover the prior art, certain objects and advantages of the invention havebeen described herein above. Of course, it is to be understood that notnecessarily all such objects or advantages may be achieved in accordancewith any particular embodiment of the invention. Thus, for example,those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention may beembodied or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes oneadvantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarilyachieving other objects or advantages as may be taught or suggestedherein.

All of these embodiments are intended to be within the scope of theinvention herein disclosed. These and other embodiments of the presentinvention will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art fromthe following detailed description of the preferred embodiments havingreference to the attached figures, the invention not being limited toany particular preferred embodiment(s) disclosed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Having thus summarized the general nature of the invention and itsessential features and advantages, certain preferred embodiments andmodifications thereof will become apparent to those skilled in the artfrom the detailed description herein having reference to the figuresthat follow, of which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a play participant holding aninteractive wand for playing an interactive adventure game in accordancethe present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a play participant learning to use theinteractive wand of FIG. 1 using a computer game and a training manual;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an adventure game center provided withina movie theatre configured to facilitate interactive game play inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating how play participants can usethe wand of FIG. 1 to create an interactive experience within a movietheatre;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a play participant playing aninteractive adventure game using a computer and the wand device of FIG.1;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an interactive adventure game centerhaving features of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a play participant playing aninteractive adventure game in accordance with the present invention, andillustrating the use of an extrinsic clue or information source;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a retail store facility having aninteractive adventure game center in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of aninteractive adventure game center provided within the retail store ofFIG. 8 and having features of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an interactive adventure game carriedout using a computer game console and one or more wand devices;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another alternative embodiment of aninteractive adventure game center or play structure such as may beprovided within a family entertainment center or theme park;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a play participant within aninteractive adventure game center casting “magical” spells using thewand device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 13 is an alternative perspective view of the interactive adventuregame center of FIG. 11;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an RFID-enabled interactive game deviceor console having features of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an RFID-enabled interactive gamedevice, ride or console having features of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of two play participants playing aninteractive game using multiple computers communicating via theinternet;

FIG. 17A is a perspective view of a magic wand toy for use with aninteractive adventure game having features and advantages in accordancewith the present invention;

FIG. 17B is a partially exploded detail view of the proximal end orhandle portion of the magic wand toy of FIG. 17A, illustrating theoptional provision of combination wheels having features and advantagesin accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 17C is a partial cross-section detail view of the distal end ortransmitting portion of the magic wand toy of FIG. 17A, illustrating theprovision of an RF transponder device therein;

FIG. 18 is a simplified schematic diagram of an RF reader and mastercontrol system for use with the magic wand toy actuator of FIG. 17Ahaving features and advantages in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 19A and 19B are front and rear views, respectively, of an optionalRFID tracking badge or card for use within an interactive adventure gamepaving features and advantages in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 20A and 20B are schematic diagrams illustrating typical operationof the RFID tracking badge of FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is simplified schematic diagram of an RFID read/write system foruse with the RFID tracking badge of FIG. 19 having features andadvantages in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 22 is a simplified block diagram illustrating the basicorganization and function of the electronic circuitry comprising theRFID tag device of FIG. 19B; and

FIG. 23 is a schematic block diagram illustrating how an interactiveadventure game in accordance with the present invention can beimplemented simultaneously and seamlessly within multiple playenvironments and entertainment mediums.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Basic Game Play

In one preferred embodiment the invention provides a system and methodof multi-media game play carried out using one or more interactive“wands” and/or other tracking/actuation devices which allow playparticipants to electronically and “magically” interact with theirsurrounding play environment(s). The play environment may either be realor imaginary (i.e. computer/TV generated), and either local or remote,as desired. Optionally, multiple play participants, each provided with asuitable “wand” and/or tracking device, may play and interact together,either within or outside one or more play environments, to achievedesired goals or produce desired effects within the play environment

For example, the invention may be carried out as an electronic treasurehunt game. Game participants receive a card, map and/or identificationbadge configured with an RFID tag, bar-code or a magnetic “swipe” stripor the like. The RFID tag or other identifying device is used to storecertain information identifying each play participant and/or describingcertain powers or abilities possessed by of an imaginary role-playcharacter that the card represents. Players advance in the game byfinding clues and solving various puzzles presented. Players may alsogain (or lose) certain attributes, such as magic skills, magic strength,fighting ability, various spell-casting abilities, etc. All relevantgame information is preferably stored (or addressably identified) on theRFID tag or card so that the character attributes may be easily andconveniently transported to other similarly-equipped play facilities,computer games, video games, home game consoles, hand-held game units,and the like. In this manner, the game is able to seamlessly transcendfrom one play or entertainment medium the next.

FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of an interactive treasure hunt gamehaving features and advantages of the present invention. The particulargame illustrated takes on the theme of the popular characters andstorylines of the children's' book series “Harry Potter” by J. K.Rowling. Within the game, play participants 105 learn to use a “magic“wand” 200 and/or other tracking/actuation device. The wand 200(described in more detail later) allows play participants toelectronically and “magically” interact with their surrounding playenvironment simply by pointing or using their wands in a particularmanner to achieve desired goals or produce desired effects within theplay environment. FIG. 1 shows a play participant 105 receiving a wand200 and game directions as a gift, for example.

Once the play participant becomes generally familiar with the wand 200add the game, he or she can preferably access a web site through theworld wide web in order to register the wand and play the firstinteractive treasure hunt game (see, e.g., FIG. 2). Preferably this is arelatively simple game intended to provide a basic training session. Inthis on-line game session, the player learns how to use the wand to castspells, levitate objects, open and close doors, etc. within aninteractive computer-gaming environment provided by an ordinary homecomputer 110. The player also learns how to discover important cluesneeded to advance in the game and to solve various puzzles or challengespresented by the game.

Once the play participant 105 has mastered the basic game andsuccessfully completed the various training sessions, he or she is readyto join other players in a world-side multi-media gaming adventure. Theadventure may begin with a new movie release. For example, FIG. 3illustrates play participants entering a movie theater to enjoy a newlyreleased HARRY POTTER movie. Preferably, play participants 105 taketheir wands 200 into one or more movie venues 125 in order to scorepoints, learn clues and advance in the game. For example, a specialcheck-in booth 127 may be provided within the movie venue for allowingplay participants to use their wands 200 to receive clues, specialpowers and/or points. While watching the movie (see, e.g., FIG. 4), themovie storyline itself may reveal additional clues mat will helpcarefully observant players to advance in the game later. Various cluesmay also be hidden within otherwise unnoticeable backgrounds, scenery,characters, movie credits, etc. Thus, play participants may need to viewa movie multiple times to glean all of the available clues needed tocomplete the game. Optionally, at certain points in the movie playparticipants may be able to use their wands 200 or other similar devicesto help direct the story-line progression, change to alternate plots,endings, etc. This may be conveniently achieved using any one or moresuitable RFID communications protocols and interactive digital DVDtechnologies (described in more detail later).

Back at home, play participants 105 may use their wand 200 to continueplaying the adventure game within one or more available on-line gamingenvironments (see, e.g., FIG. 5). Various books 130, aids, instructionsand other similar materials may be provided to help play participantscomplete the adventure, while preferably learning valuable knowledge andskills. For example, part of the game play may require play participantsto conduct independent research in a particular area or to becomeproficient in a chosen skill to advance in the game (e.g., FIG. 7).

The game continues within various participating retail environments.Thus, for example, FIG. 6 illustrates a local HARRY POTTER gameadventure center created within a local book store, toy store,restaurant, or the like (e.g., FIG. 8). The game center preferablyprovides additional clues, assistance and/or opportunities for socialinteraction, information sharing and/or strategic cooperation amongmultiple game players. In a particularly preferred embodiment,cooperation among multiple play participants is required to allowcooperating players to advance in the game. The game center alsopreferably provides a distribution center for related products such ascomputer games, video games, wands 200 and the like (e.g. FIGS. 9, 10).Purchased video games may be played at home (e.g., FIG. 10) usingconventional game controllers and/or a specially configured controller(not shown) adapted to communicate wirelessly with wand 200 or a similardevice.

Advantageously, in this manner the game is able to transcend seamlesslyfrom one entertainment medium to another using the wand 200 or othersimilar RFID-capable device as a means to store, transport andcommunicate character development and game progress between differententertainment mediums and play environments. Thus, game play preferablyextends from the home, to television, to internet, to theatre, and/or toone or more local family entertainment centers (“FEC”), games centers,family restaurants, and the like (see, e.g., FIG. 23). For example,FIGS. 11-15 illustrate an entertainment center configured forinteractive game play in accordance with the present invention. Theparticular entertainment center 250 illustrated takes on the theme of a“magic” training center for would-be wizards in accordance with thepopular characters and storylines of the children's' book series “HarryPotter” by J. K. Rowling.

Within this family entertainment center 250, play participants 105 learnto use their magic wands 200 and/or other tracking/actuation devices.The wand 200 preferably allows play participants to electronically and“magically” interact with their surrounding play environment simply bypointing or using their wands in a particular manner to achieve desiredgoals or produce desired effects within the play environment. Forexample, various wireless receivers or transceivers 300 may bedistributed throughout the play center 250 to facilitate suchinteraction via wireless communications. Depending upon the degree ofgame complexity desired and the amount of information sharing required,the transceivers 300 may or may not be connected to a master system orcentral server (not shown). Preferably, most, if not all, of thereceivers or transceivers 300 are stand-alone devices that do notrequire communications with an external server or network. In oneparticularly preferred embodiment this may be achieved by storing anyinformation required to be shared on the wand 200 and/or on anassociated radio frequency tracking card or badge worn or carried by theplay participant (described later).

If desired, a suitable play media, such as foam or rubber balls orsimilar objects, may be provided for use throughout the play center toprovide convenient objects for clue sources, tools, trading currencyand/or tactile interactive play. For example, thousands of soft foamballs may be provided as an interactive play medium (e.g., FIG. 13).These may be manipulated by play participants using various interactiveplay elements to create desired effects. Balls may range in size fromapproximately 1″ to 12″ in diameter or larger, as desired, and arepreferable about 2½″ in diameter. Preferably, the objects are not sosmall as to present a choking hazard for young children. The majority ofthe objects may be the same size, or a mixture of sizes may be utilized,as desired. Certain play elements within the play center may require theuse of certain objects in order to complete a required task. Forexample, various play objects may identified using one or more embeddedor affixed RFID tags which may be electronically read by the variousgame consoles 275 within the play center 250.

Other suitable play media may include, without limitation, foam, plasticor rubber balls and similarly formed articles such as cubes, plates,discs, tubes, cones, rubber or foam bullets/arrows, the presentinvention not being limited to any particular preferred play media.These may be used alone or in combination with one another. Forinstance, flying discs, such as Frisbees™, may be flung from onelocation within the play center 250 while other play participants shootat the discs using foam balls or suction-cup arrows. Wet or semi-wetplay mediums, such as slime-like materials, snow, mud, squirt gunsand/or water balloons may also used, as desired, to cool and entertainplay participants. Durable plastic or rubber play media are preferablein an outdoor play structure where environmental exposure mayprematurely destroy or degrade the quality of certain play mediums suchas foam balls. The particular play media used is not particularlyimportant for purposes of carrying out the invention and, optionally,may be omitted altogether, if desired.

Various interactive play elements and games 275, 280 are preferablyprovided within the play center 250 to allow play participants 105 tocreate desired “magical” effects, as illustrated in FIGS. 14 and 15.These may include interactive elements such as video games,coin-operated rides, and the like. These may be actuated manually byplay participants or, more desirably, “magically” electronically byappropriately using the wand 200 in conjunction with one or moretransceivers 300. Some interactive play elements may have simpleimmediate effects, while others may have complex and/or delayed effects.Some play elements may produce local effects while others may produceremote effects. Each play participant 105, or sometimes a group of playparticipants working together, preferably must experiment with thevarious play elements and using their magic wands in order to discoverhow to create the desired effect(s). Once one play participant figuresit out, he or she can use the resulting play effect to surprise andentertain other play participants. Yet other play participants willobserve the activity and will attempt to also figure it out in order toturn the tables on the next group. Repeated play on a particular playelement can increase the participants' skills in accurately using thewand 200 to produce desired effects or increasing the size or range ofsuch effects. Optionally, play participants can compete with one anotherusing the various play elements to see which participant or group ofparticipants can create bigger, longer, more accurate or morespectacular effects.

While several particularly preferred play environments have beendescribed, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art thata wide variety of other possible play environments and otherentertainment mediums may be used to carry out the invention.Alternatively, a suitable play environment may comprise a simple themedplay area, or even a multi-purpose area such as a restaurant diningfacility, family room, bedroom or the like. Internet (e.g., FIG. 16),video games, computer games, television, movies and radio can also beused to provide all or part of the overall game experience in accordancewith the present invention.

Magic Wand

As indicated above, play participants 105 learn to use a “magic wand”200 and/or other tracking/actuation device. The wand preferably 200allows play participants to electronically and “magically” interact withtheir surrounding play environment simply by pointing or using theirwands in a particular manner to achieve desired goals or produce desiredeffects within the play environment. Use of the wand 200 may be assimple as touching it to a particular surface or “magical” item within asuitably configured play environment or it maybe as complex as shakingor twisting the wand a predetermined number of times in a particularmanner and/or pointing it accurately at a certain target desired to be“magically” transformed or otherwise affected. As play participants playand interact within each play environment they learn more about the“magical” powers possessed by the wand 200 and become more adept atusing the wand to achieve desired goals or desired play effects.Optionally, play participants may collect points or earn additionalmagic levels or ranks for each play effect or task they successfullyachieve. In this manner, play participants 105 may compete with oneanother to see who can score more points and/or achieve the highestmagic level.

FIG. 17 illustrates the basic construction of one preferred embodimentof a “magic” wand 200 having features and advantages in accordance withone preferred embodiment of the invention. As illustrated in FIG. 17Athe wand 200 basically comprises an elongated hollow pipe or tube 310having a proximal end or handle portion 315 and a distal end ortransmitting portion 320. If desired, an internal cavity may be providedto receive one or more batteries to power optional lighting, laser orsound effects and/or to power longer-range transmissions such as via aninfrared LED transmitter device or RF transmitter device. An optionalbutton 325 may also be provided, if desired, to enable particulardesired functions, such as sound or lighting effects or longer-rangetransmissions.

FIG. 17B is a partially exploded detail view of the proximal end 315 ofthe magic wand toy 200 of FIG. 17A. As illustrated, the handle portion315 is fitted with optional combination wheels having various symbolsand/or images thereon. Preferably, certain wand functions may requirethat these wheels be rotated to produce a predetermined pattern ofsymbols such as three owls, or an owl, a broom and a moon symbol. Thoseskilled in the art will readily appreciate that the combination wheelsmay be configured to actuate electrical contacts and/or other circuitrywithin the wand 200 in order to provide the desired functionality.Alternatively, the combination wheels may provide a simple securitymeasure to prevent unauthorized users from actuating the wand.Alternatively, the wheels may provide a simple encoder/decoder mechanismfor encoding, decoding, interpreting and/or transforming secret codes orpasswords used during game play.

FIG. 17C is a partial cross-section detail view of the distal end ofmagic wand toy 200 of FIG. 17A. As illustrated, the distal end 320 isfitted with an RFID (radio frequency identification device) transponder335 that is operable to provide relatively short-range RF communications(<60 cm) with one or more of the receivers or transceivers 300distributed throughout a play environment (e.g., FIGS. 11, 12). At itsmost basic level, RFID provides a wireless link to uniquely identifyobjects or people. It is sometimes called dedicated short rangecommunication (DSRC). RFID systems include electronic devices calledtransponders or tags, and reader electronics to communicate with thetags. These systems communicate via radio signals that carry data eitheruni-directionally (read only) or, more preferably, bi-directionally(read/write). One suitable RFID transponder is the 134.2 kHz/123.2 kHz,23 mm Glass Transponder available from Texas Instruments, Inc.(http://www.tiris.com, Product No. RI-TRP-WRHP). This transponderbasically comprises a passive (non-battery-operated) RFtransmitter/receiver chip 340 and an antenna 345 provided within anhermetically sealed vial 350. A protective silicon sheathing 355 ispreferably inserted around the sealed vial 350 between the vial and theinner wall of the tube 310 to insulate the transponder from shock andvibration.

FIG. 18 is a simplified schematic diagram of one embodiment of an RFtransceiver 300 and optional master control system 375 for use with themagic wand toy actuator of FIG. 17A. As illustrated, the transceiver 300basically comprises an RF Module 380, a Control Module 385 and anantenna 390. When the distal end of wand 200 comes within apredetermined range of antenna 390 (˜20-60 cm) the transponder antenna345 (FIG. 17C) becomes excited and impresses a voltage upon the RFtransmitter/receiver chip 340 disposed within transponder 335 at thedistal end of the wand 200. In response, the RF transmitter/receivership 340 causes transponder antenna 345 to broadcast certain informationstored within the transponder 335 comprising 80 bits of read/writememory. This information typically includes the user's unique ID number,magic level or rank and/or certain other information pertinent to theuser or the user's play experiences.

This information is initially received by RF Module 380, which can thentransfer the information through standard interfaces to an optional HostComputer 375, Control Module 385, printer, or programmable logiccontroller for storage or action. If appropriate, Control Module 385provides certain outputs to activate or control one or more associatedplay effects, such as lighting, sound, various mechanical or pneumaticactuators or the like. Optional Host Computer 375 processes theinformation and/or communicates it to other transceivers 300, as may berequired by the game. If suitably configured, RF Module 380 may alsobroadcast or “write” certain information back to the transponder 335 tochange or update one of more of the 80 read/write bits in its memory.This exchange of communications occurs very rapidly (˜70 ms) and so fromthe user's perspective it appears to be instantaneous. Thus, the wand200 may be used in this “short range” or “passive” mode to actuatevarious “magical” effects throughout the play structure 100 by simplytouching or bringing the tip of the wand 200 into relatively closeproximity with a particular transceiver 300. To provide added mysteryand fun, certain transceivers 300 may be provided as hidden cluestations within a play environment so that they must be discovered bydiscovered by play participants 105. The locations of hiddentransceivers and/or other clue stations may be changed from time to timeto keep the game fresh and exciting.

If desired, the wand 200 may also be configured for long rangecommunications with one or more of the transceivers 300 (or otherreceivers) disposed within a play environment. For example, one or moretransceivers 300 may be located on a roof or ceiling surface, on aninaccessible theming element, or other area out of reach of playparticipants. Such long-rage wand operation may be readily achievedusing an auxiliary battery powered RF transponder, such as availablefrom Axcess, Inc., Dallas, Tex. If line of sight or directionalactuation is desired, a battery-operated infrared LED transmitter andreceiver of the type employed in television remote control may be used,as those skilled in the art will readily appreciate. Of course, a widevariety of other wireless communications devices, as well as varioussound and lighting effects may also be provided, as desired. Any one ormore of these may be actuated via button 325, as desirable orconvenient.

Additional optional circuitry and/or position sensors may be added, ifdesired, to allow the “magic wand” 200 to be operated by waving,shaking, stroking and/or tapping it in a particular manner. If provided,these operational aspects would need to be learned by play participantsas they train in the various play environments. One goal, for example,may be to become a “grand wizard” or master of the wand. This means thatthe play participant 105 has learned and mastered every aspect ofoperating the wand to produce desired effects within each playenvironment. Of course, additional effects and operational nuances can(and preferably are) always added over time in order to keep theinteractive experience fresh and continually changing. Optionally, thewand 200 may be configured such that it is able to display 50 or morecharacters on a LTD or LCD screen. The wand may also be configured torespond to other signals, such as light, sound, or voice commands aswill be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. This could beuseful, for example for generating, storing and retrieving secret passwords, informational clues and the like.

RFID Tracking Card/Badge

FIGS. 19A and 19B are front and rear views, respectively, of an optionalor alternative RFID tracking badge or card 400 for use within theinteractive game described above. This may be used instead of or inaddition to the wand 200, described above. The particular badge 400illustrated is intended to be affixed or adhered to the front of a shirtor blouse worn by a play participant during their visit to suitablyequipped play or entertainment facilities. The badge preferablycomprises a paper, cardboard or plastic substrate having a front side404 and a back side 410. The front 405 of each card/badge 400 may beimprinted with graphics, photos, treasure maps or any other informationdesired. In the particular embodiment illustrated, the front 405contains an image of HARRY POTTER in keeping with the overall theme ofthe game described above. In addition, the front 405 of the badge 400may include any number of other designs or information pertinent to itsapplication. For example, the guest's name 430, and group 435 may beindicated for convenient reference. A unique tag ID Number 440 may alsobe displayed for convenient reference and is particularly preferredwhere the badge 400 is to be reused by other play participants.

The obverse side 410 of the badge 400 contains the badge electronicscomprising a radio frequency tag 420 pre-programmed with a unique personidentifier number (“UPIN”). The tag 420 generally comprises a spiralwound antenna 450, a radio frequency transmitter clip 460 and variouselectrical leads and terminals 470 connecting the chip 460 to theantenna. Advantageously, the UPIN may be used to identify and trackindividual play participants within the play facility. Optionally, eachtag 420 may also include a unique group identifier number (“UGIN”) whichmay be used to match a defined group of individuals having apredetermined relationship—either pre-existing or contrived for purposesof game play. If desired, the tag 420 may be covered with an adhesivepaper label (not shown) or, alternatively, may be molded directly into aplastic sheet substrate comprising the card 400.

Various readers distributed throughout a park or entertainment facilityare able to read the RFID tags 420. Thus, the UPIN and UGIN informationcan be conveniently read and provided to an associated master controlsystem, display system or other tracking, recording or display devicefor purposes of creating a record of each play participant's experiencewithin the play facility. This information may be used for purposes ofcalculating individual or team scores, tracking and/or locating lostchildren, verifying whether or not a child is inside a facility, photocapture & retrieval, and many other useful purposes as will be readilyobvious and apparent to those skilled in the art.

Preferably, the tag 420 is passive (requires no batteries) so that it isinexpensive to purchase and maintain. Such tags and various associatedreaders and other accessories are commercially available in a widevariety of configurations, sizes and read ranges. RFID tags having aread range of between about 10 cm to about 100 cm are particularlypreferred, although shorter or longer read ranges may also beacceptable. The particular tag illustrated is the 13.56 mHz tag soldunder the brand name Taggit™ available from Texas Instruments, Inc.(http://www.tiris.com, Product No. RI-103-110A). The tag 420 has auseful read/write range of about 25 cm and contains 256-bits of on-boardmemory arranged in 8×32-bit blocks which may be programmed (written) andread by a suitably configured read/write device. Such tag device isuseful for storing and retrieving desired user-specific information suchas UPIN, UGIN, first and/or last name, age, rank or level, total pointsaccumulated, tasks completed, facilities visited, etc. If a longerread/write range and/or more memory is desired, optional battery-poweredtags may be used instead, such as available from ACXESS, Inc. and/orvarious other vendors known to those skilled in the art.

FIGS. 20 and 21 are simplified schematic illustrations of tag and readeroperation. The tag 420 is initially activated by a radio frequencysignal broadcast by an antenna 510 of an adjacent reader or activationdevice 500. The signal impresses a voltage upon the antenna 450 byinductive coupling which is then used to power the chip 460 (see, e.g.,FIG. 20A). When activated, the chip 460 transmits via radio frequency aunique identification number preferably corresponding to the UPIN and/orUGIN described above (see, e.g., FIG. 20B). The signal may betransmitted either by inductive coupling or, more preferably, bypropagation coupling over a distance “d” determined by the range of thetag/reader combination. This signal is then received and processed bythe associated reader 500 as described above. If desired, the RFID cardor badge 400 may also be configured for read/write communications withan associated reader/writer. Thus, the unique tag identifier number(UPIN or UGIN) can be changed or other information may be added.

As indicated above, communication of data between a tag and a reader isby wireless communication. As a result, transmitting such data is alwayssubject to the vagaries and influences of the media or channels throughwhich the data has to pass, including the air interface. Noise,interference and distortion are the primary sources of data corruptionthat may arise. Thus, those skilled in the art will recognize that acertain degree of care should be taken in the placement and orientationof readers 500 so as to minimize the probability of such datatransmission errors. Preferably, the readers are placed at least 30-60cm away from any metal objects, power lines or other potentialinterference sources. Those skilled in the art will also recognize thatthe write range of the tag/reader combination is typically somewhat less(˜10-15% less) than the read range “d” and, thus, this should also betaken into account in determining optimal placement and positioning ofeach reader device 500.

Typical RFID data communication is asynchronous or unsynchronized innature and, thus, particular attention should be given in consideringthe form in which the data is to be communicated. Structuring the bitstream to accommodate these needs, such as via a channel encodingscheme, is preferred in order to provide reliable system performance.Various suitable channel encoding schemes, such as amplitude shiftkeying (ASK), frequency shift keying (FSK), phase shift keying (PSK) andspread spectrum modulation (SSM), are well know to those skilled in theart and will not be further discussed herein. The choice of carrier wavefrequency is also important in determining data transfer rates.Generally speaking the higher the frequency the higher the data transferor throughput rates that can be achieved. This is intimately linked tobandwidth or range available within the frequency spectrum for thecommunication process. Preferably, the channel bandwidth is selected tobe at least twice the bit rate required for the particular gameapplication.

FIG. 22 is a simplified block diagram illustrating the basicorganization and function of the electronic circuitry comprising theradio frequency transmitter chip 460 of the RFID tag device 420 of FIG.19B. The chip 460 basically comprises a central processor 530, AnalogueCircuitry 535, Digital Circuitry 540 and on-board memory 545. On-boardmemory 545 is divided into read-only memory (ROM) 550, random accessmemory (RAM) 555 and non-volatile programmable memory 560, which isavailable for data storage. The ROM-based memory 550 is used toaccommodate security data and the tag operating system instructionswhich, in conjunction with the processor 530 and processing logic dealswith the internal “house-keeping” functions such as response delaytiming, data flow control and power supply switching. The RAM-basedmemory 555 is used to facilitate temporary data storage duringtransponder interrogation and response. The non-volatile programmablememory 560 may take various forms, electrically erasable programmableread only memory (EEPROM) being typical. It is used to store thetransponder data and is preferably non-volatile to ensure that the datais retained when the device is in its quiescent or power-saving “sleep”state.

Various data buffers or further memory components (not shown), may beprovided to temporarily hold incoming data following demodulation andoutgoing data for modulation and interface with the transponder antenna450. Analog Circuitry 535 provides the facility to direct andaccommodate the interrogation field energy for powering purposes inpassive transponders and triggering of the transponder response. AnalogCircuitry also provides the facility to accept the programming or“write” data modulated signal and to perform the necessary demodulationand data transfer processes. Digital Circuitry 540 provides certaincontrol logic, security logic and internal microprocessor logic requiredto operate central processor 530.

Role Play Character Cards

The RFID card 400 illustrated and described above is used, in accordancewith the afore-mentioned preferred embodiment, to identify and trackindividual play participants and/or groups of play participants within aplay facility. However, in another preferred embodiment, the same card400 and/or a similarly configured RFID or a magnetic “swipe” card or thelike may be used to store certain powers or abilities of an imaginaryrole-play character that the card 400 represents.

For example, card 400 may represent the HARRY POTTER character. As eachplay participant uses his or her favorite character card in variousHARRY POTTER play facilities the HARRY POTTER character represented bythe card 400 gains (or loses) certain attributes, such as magic skilllevel, magic strength, flight ability, various spell-casting abilities,etc. All of this information is preferably stored on the card 400 sothat the character attributes may be easily and conveniently transportedto other similarly-equipped play facilities, computer games, videogames, home game consoles, hand-held game units, and the like. In thismanner, an imaginary role-play character is created and stored on a cardthat is able to seamlessly transcend from one play medium to the next.

For example, character attributes developed during a play aparticipant's visit to a local HARRY POTTER/HOGWART magic facility arestored on the card 400. When the play participant then revisits the sameor another HARRY POTTER play facility, all of the attributes of hischaracter are “remembered” on the card so that the play participant isable to continue playing with and developing the same role-playcharacter. Similarly, various video games, home game consoles, and/orhand-held game units can be and preferably are configured to communicatewith the card 400 in a similar manner as described above and/or usingother well-known information storage and communication techniques. Inthis manner, a play participant can use the character card 400 and therole play character he or she has developed with specific associatedattributes in a favorite video action game, role-play computer game orthe like.

Master Control System

Depending upon the degree of game complexity desired and the amount ofinformation sharing required, the transceivers 300 may or may not beconnected to a master control system or central server 375 (FIG. 18). Ifa master system is utilized, preferably each wand 200 and/or RFID card400, 600 is configured to electronically send and receive information toand from various receivers or transceivers 300 distributed throughout aplay facility using a send receive radio frequency (“SRRF”)communication protocol. This communications protocol provides the basicfoundation for a complex, interactive entertainment system which createsa seemingly magic interactive play experience for play participants whopossess and learn to use the magical wand. In its most refinedembodiments, a user may electronically send and receive information toand from other wands and/or to and from a master control system locatedwithin and/or associated with any of a number of play environments, suchas a family entertainment facility, restaurant play structure,television/video/radio programs, computer software program, gameconsole, web site, etc. This newly created network of SRRF-compatibleplay and entertainment environments provides a complex, interactive playand entertainment system that creates a seamless magical interactiveplay experience that transcends conventional physical and temporalboundaries.

SRRF may generally be described as an RF-based communications technologyand protocol that allows pertinent information and messages to be sentand received to and from two or more SRRF compatible devices or systems.While the specific embodiments descried herein are specific to RF-basedcommunication systems, those skilled in the art will readily appreciatethat the broader interactive play concepts taught herein may be realizedusing any number of commercially available 2-way and/or 1-way mediumrange wireless communication devices and communication protocols suchas, without limitation, infrared-, digital-, analog, AM/FM-, laser-,visual-, audio-, and/or ultrasonic-based systems, as desired orexpedient.

The SRRF system can preferably send and receive signals (up to 40 feet)between tokens and fixed transceivers. The system is preferably able toassociate a token with a particular zone as defined by a tokenactivation area approximately 10-15 feet in diameter. Differenttransceiver and antenna configurations can be utilized depending on theSRRF requirements for each play station. The SRRF facility tokens andtransceivers are networked throughout the facility. These devices can behidden in or integrated into the facility's infrastructure, such aswalls, floors, ceilings and play station equipment. Therefore, the sizeand packaging of these transceivers is not particularly critical.

In a preferred embodiment, an entire entertainment facility may beconfigured with SRRF technology to provide a master control system foran interactive entertainment play environment using SRRF-compatiblemagic wands and/or tracking devices. A typical entertainment facilityprovided with SRRF technology may allow 300-400 or more users tomore-or-less simultaneously send and receive electronic transmissions toand from the master control system using a magic wand or otherSRRF-compatible tracking device.

In particular, the SRRF system uses a software program and data-basethat can track the locations and activities of up to a hundred moreusers. This information is then used to adjust the play experience forthe user based on “knowing” where the user/player has been, whatobjectives that player has accomplished and how many points or levelshave been reached. The system can then send messages to the userthroughout the play experience. For example, the system cal allow ordeny access to a user into a new play area based on how many points orlevels reached by that user and/or based on what objectives that userhas accomplished or helped accomplish. It can also indicate, via sendinga message to the user the amount of points or specific play objectivesnecessary to complete a “mission” or enter the next level of play. Themaster control system can also send messages to the user from otherusers.

The system is preferably sophisticated enough that it can allow multipleusers to interact with each other adjusting the game instantly. Themaster system can also preferably interface with digital imaging and/orvideo capture so that the users' activities can be visually tracked. Anyuser can locate another user either through the video capturing systemor by sending a message to another device. At the end of a visit, usersare informed of their activities and the system interfaces with printoutcapabilities. The SRRF system is preferably capable of sending andreceiving signals up to 100 feet. Transmitter devices can also be hiddenin walls or other structures in order to provide additionalinteractivity and excitement for play participants.

Suitable embodiments of the SRRF technology described above may beobtained from a number of suitable sources, such as AXCESS, Inc. and, inparticular, the AXCESS active RFID network system for asset and peopletacking applications. In another preferred embodiment the systemcomprises a network of transceivers 300 installed at specific pointsthroughout a facility. Players are outfitted or provided with a reusable“token”—a standard AXCESS personnel tag clipped to their clothing in theupper chest area. As each player enters a specific interactive play areaor “game zone” within the facility, the player's token receives a lowfrequency activation signal containing a zone identification number(ZID). The token then responds to this signal by transmitting both itsunique token identification number (TID) along with the ZID, thusidentifying and associating the player with a particular zone.

The token's transmitted signal is received by a transceiver 300 attachedto a data network built into the facility. Using the data network, thetransceiver forwards the TID/ZID data to a host computer system. Thehost system uses the SRRF information to log/track the guest's progressthrough the facility while interfacing with other interactive systemswithin the venue. For example, upon receipt of a TID/ZID messagereceived from Zone 1, the host system may trigger a digital camerafocused on that area, thus capturing a digital image of the player whichcan now be associated with both their TID and the ZID at a specifictime. In this manner, the SRRF technology allows the master controlsystem to uniquely identity and track people as they interact withvarious games and activities in a semi-controlled play environment.Optionally, the system may be configured for two-way messaging to enablemore complex interactive gaming concepts.

In another embodiment, the SRRF technology can be used in the home. Forenabling Magic at the home, a small SRRF module is preferablyincorporated into one or more portable toys or objects that may be assmall as a beeper. The SRRF module supports two-way communications witha small home transceiver, as well as with other SRRF objects. Forexample, a Magic wand 200 can communicate with another Magic wand 200.

The toy wand or other object 200 may also include the ability to producelight, vibration or other sound effects based on signals receivedthrough the SRRF module. In a more advanced implementation, the magicalobject may be configured such that it is able to display preprogrammedmessages of up to 50 characters on a LCD screen when triggered by useraction (e.g., button) or via signals received through the SRRF module.This device is also preferably capable of displaying short text messagestransmitted over the SRRF wireless link from another SRRF-compatibledevice.

Preferably, the SRRF transceiver 300 is capable of supportingmedium-to-long range (10-40 feet) two-way communications between SRRFobjects and a host system, such as a PC running SRRF-compatiblesoftware. This transceiver 300 has an integral antenna and interfaces tothe host computer through a dedicated communication port using industrystandard RS232 serial communications. It is also desirable that the SRRFtransmission method be flexible such that it can be embedded intelevision or radio signals, videotapes, DVDs, video games and otherprograms media, stripped out and re-transmitted using low costcomponents. The exact method for transposing these signals, as well asthe explicit interface between the home transceiver and common consumerelectronics (i.e., TVs, radios, VCRs, DVD players, NV receivers, etc.)is not particularly important, so long as the basic functionality asdescribed above is achieved. The various components needed to assemblesuch an SRRF system suitable for use with the present invention arecommercially available and their assembly to achieve the desiredfunctionality described above can be readily determined by persons ofordinary skill in the art. If desired, each SRRF transceiver may alsoincorporate a global positioning (“GPS”) device to track the exactlocation of each play participant within one or more play environments.

Most desirably, a SRRF module can be provided in “chip” form to beincorporated with other electronics, or designed as a packaged modulesuitable for the consumer market. If desired, the antenna can beembedded in the module, or integrated into the toy and attached to themodule. Different modules and antennas may be required depending on thefunction, intelligence and interfaces required for different devices. Aconsumer grade rechargeable or user replaceable battery may also be usedto power both the SRRF module and associated toy electronics.

Interactive Game Play

The present invention may be carried out using a wide variety ofsuitable game play environments, storylines and characters, as will bereadily apparent to those skilled in the art. The following specificgame play examples are provided for purposes of illustration and forbetter understanding of the invention and should not be taken aslimiting the invention in any way:

EXAMPLE 1

An overall interactive gaming experience and entertainment system isprovided (called the “Magic” experience), which tells a fantastic storythat engages children and families in a never-ending adventure based ona mysterious treasure box filled with magical objects. Through a numberof entertainment venues such as entertainment facilities, computergames, television, publications, web sites, and the like, children learnabout and/or are trained to use these magical objects to become powerful“wizards” within one or more defined “Magic” play environments. The playenvironments may be physically represented, such as via an actualexisting play structure or family entertainment center, and/or it may bevisually/aurally represented via computer animation, television radioand/or other entertainment venue or source.

The magical objects use the SRRF communications system allowing formessages and information to be received and sent to and from any otherobject or system. Optionally, these may be programmed and linked to themaster SRRF system. Most preferably, the “magic wand” 200 is configuredto receive messages from any computer software, game console, web site,and entertainment facility, television program that carries the SRRFsystem. In addition, the magic wand can also preferably send messages toany SRRF compatible system thus allowing for the “wand” to be trackedand used within each play environment where the wand is presented. Thetoy or wand 200 also preferably enables the user to interact with eithera Master system located within a Magic entertainment facility and/or ahome-based system using common consumer electronic devices such as apersonal computer, VCR or video game system.

The master control system for a Magic entertainment facility generallycomprises: (1) a “token” (gag, toy, wand 200 or other device) carried bythe user 105, (2) a plurality of receivers or transceivers 300 installedthroughout the facility, (3) a standard LAN communications system(optional), and (4) a master computer system interfaced to thetransceiver network (optional). If a Master computer system is used,preferably the software program running on the Master computer iscapable of tracking the total experience for hundreds of userssubstantially in real time. The information is used to adjust the playfor each user based on knowing the age of the user, where the user hasplayed or is playing, points accumulated, levels reached and specificobjectives accomplished. Based on real-time information obtained fromthe network, the system can also send messages to the user as theyinteract throughout the Magic experience.

The Master system can quickly authorize user access to a new playstation area or “zone” based on points or levels reached. It can alsopreferably indicate, via sending a message to the user, the pointsneeded or play activities necessary to complete a “mission.” The Mastersystem can also send messages to the user from other users. The systemis preferably sophisticated enough to allow multiple users to interactwith each other while enjoying the game in real-time.

Optionally, the Master system can interface with digital imaging andvideo capture so that the users' activities can be visually tracked.Users can locate another user either through the video capturing systemor by sending a message to another device. At the end of a visit, usersare shown photos of their activities related to the Magic experience viadisplay or printout.

For relatively simple interactive games, the Master system may beomitted in order to save costs. In that case, any game-relatedinformation required to be shared with other receivers or transceiversmay be communicated via an RS-232 hub network, Ethernet, or wirelessnetwork, or such information may be stored on the want itself and/or anassociated RFID card or badge carried by the play participant (discussedlater). For retrofit applications, it is strongly preferred to providesubstantially all stand-alone receivers or transceivers that do notcommunicate to a master system or network. This is to avoid the expenseof re-wiring existing infrastructure. For these applications, anyinformation required to be shared by the game system is preferablystored on the wand or other RFID device(s) carried by the playparticipants. Alternatively, if a more complex game experience isdemanded, any number of commercially available wireless networks may beprovided without requiring rewiring or existing infrastructure.

EXAMPLE 2

Game participants are immersed in a treasure hunt adventure thatcombines old fashioned storytelling, live entertainment, hands-on playand interactive gaming together in a seamless experience. The game iscarried out in multiple venues and using multiple entertainment mediumsso that cross-media promotion and traffic is encouraged and provided bythe game (see, e.g., FIG. 23).

The treasure hunt is brought to life through a live-action story andinteractive game using the RFID tag technology. Play participantsreceive points (optionally redeemable for one or more prizes) forsearching and successfully finding clues and other items and for solvingvarious puzzles and the final mystery of the whereabouts of a losttreasure located at Stone Mountain, Ga. Guests are awarded points forfinding 18-20 hidden and not-so hidden items such as a framed letter, apainting on the wall, bottle of elixir buried amongst props, etc. Theseclues and other items are preferably distributed throughout a parkfacility and in various retail, restaurant and entertainment buildingsfor which the park desires to generate additional walk-in traffic.

Each item found is worth a certain number of points and/or reveals tothe player one or more clue(s) needed to advance in the game. Clues maybe the location of other hidden items, tools or clues. Preferably theclues are revealed in an appropriately themed manner, such as a localnewspaper account, programmed and staff-led storytelling, signage,performances, and various interactive game consoles. The story iseventually revealed as follows:

Sample Storyline

In 1790 Alexander McIlivray, son of a Scottish solider and MuskogeeIndian Princess, became an important friend of both the Indians and theUnited States government. He met with several important men at StoneMountain to put together a peace treaty between the Indians and thegovernment. George Washington invited him to meet with him in New Yorkwhere they agreed to the Treaty of New York. For his efforts, Alexanderwas made a “ingather General in the army with a pension. It is believedthat he was also given $100,000 gold coins.

This treasure of gold coins was passed down several generations and itis reported to be buried at Stone Mountain. Many in the town believe thestory is legend, but two unrelenting men believe that it is true. Afamous Historian by the name of Andrew Johnson, and an adventurer by thename of Tom Willingham, are convinced that the treasure exists and havespent the last 10 years searching for the gold. The last living relativeto McIlivray buried the treasure but wanted the search to be difficultand has left important and revealing clues throughout the town ofCrossroads. The two men's journey is coming to an exciting conclusion inthat they have discovered that the final clue is buried under thefountain/mine/bust of Alexander McIlivary near the center of town. Asthey dig in “present” day for their final clue, they tell the story oftheir hunt for the treasure over the last decade. One and all areinvited to retrace their steps in their search for the gold and become apart of the grand adventure when the final clue is revealed to where thetreasure is buried.

Game Play

By participating in the game players receive valuable points for eachlevel of accomplishment they make in finding these clues and items whichcould either give them high point rankings and/or earn them a prize orchance at a large prize in the future (e.g. part of a real treasure).Advantageously, clues and other necessary items are preferably hiddenwithin various retail stores and designated entertainment areas givingkids and adults fun and alluring reasons to go inside buildings and seekout new experiences they might have otherwise overlooked.

Once a player completes the game, her or she will have collected enoughpoints, clues and other information that will give them the knowledgethey need to discover and/or solve the final clue of where the treasureis buried. The “reward” for successfully completing the game could be,for example, a small prize, recognition certificate, a sweepstakes entryto win a large prize.

EXAMPLE 3

Game participants are immersed in a worldwide treasure hunt adventure tolocate a large, unknown amount or money stashed away in one or moreSwiss bank accounts (the money and the accounts can be real or“made-up”).

Sample Storyline

Willy Wonkers, a reclusive/eccentric billionaire, was unsure which ofhis many would-be heirs was worthy to receive his vast fortunes. So heprovided in his will that upon his demise his entire estate was to beliquidated and all of the proceeds placed in a number of anonymous Swissbank accounts (under secret passwords known only to Willy) to bedistributed “to only such heir(s) who prove themselves worthy ofinheriting my vast fortunes by successfully completing the WonkersWorldwide Worthiness Challenge”—a series of intellectual, physical andmoral challenges devised by Willy.

To create the ultimate “worthiness” challenge, Willy employed a team ofa thousand of the world's top scientists, psychologists, teachers,musicians, engineers, doctors, etc. The goal was to develop a number ofprobative tests/challenges that would ultimately reveal the worthyrecipient(s) of Willy's vast fortunes. Per Willy's instructions thechallenges were very carefully and meticulously designed to ensure thatonly persons of the highest character and pureness of heart/mind couldever succeed in completing all of the necessary challenges and therebyobtain Willy's fortunes. Willy was especially vigilant to thwart thepossible feigning efforts of unscrupulous persons who might attempt togain access to his fortunes by cheating, trickery or other deceptivedevices. Above all, he was determined to prevent any part of his vastestate and fortune from ever falling into the hands of persons who werelazy, ignorant or wicked of heart.

While Willy was a prodigiously brilliant and gifted man, he was alsosurprisingly naive. Willy soon met his demise at the bottom of a boilingvat of chocolate via the hands of his greedy nephew and would-be heir,Ignomeous (“Iggy”) Ignoramus. When Iggy learned of his uncle's plan, heabducted Willy late one night outside his office and forced him atgunpoint to reveal the secret passwords which only Willy knew (it waseasy for Willy to remember because the passwords were his favoritecandies). While nervously holding the gun to Willy's head, Iggyfrantically inscribed the secret account numbers and passwords on theback of a chocolate bar (there being no paper hand at the time). He thenbound and gagged Willy and threw him into the boiling vat of chocolatewhereupon Willy was found dead the next morning.

Iggy's plan (such as it was) was to lay low and wait for Willy's estateto be liquidated and transferred into the various secret Swiss accountsin accordance with Willy's final wishes. But, before any genuinelyworthy recipient would have a chance to successfully complete all of thechallenges and rightfully claim the Wonkers fortunes, Iggy wouldsecretly divert all of the funds in each of the secret Swiss accounts tohis own secret accounts whereupon he would enjoy the good-life foreverthereafter.

Unfortunately, Iggy failed to consider the extreme heat radiated by theboiling vat of chocolate. By the time Iggy had gagged, bound, draggedand threw Willy into the boiling vat of chocolate and watched him as heslowly sank deeper and deeper into the molten chocolate to his demise,Iggy realized he was sweating like a pig. It was at that time that healso noticed the chocolate bar—upon which he had inscribed the secretSwiss account numbers and passwords—had all but melted away in his shirtpocket. Frantically, Iggy tried to preserve the rapidly meltingchocolate bar, but it was too late. He was only able to salvage a fewincomplete numbers and passwords before the candy bar was no more.

Iggy tried mentally to recreate the missing information, but he was notgood at remembering much of anything, let alone numbers and obscurepasswords. Thus, he could only recreate a few bits and pieces of thecritical information. On the brighter side, Iggy did manage to salvagesome of the information and he figured, given enough time, he wouldprobably be able to break the secret passwords and ultimately get theloot before anyone else does. His cousin, Malcolm Malcontent, andseveral other greedy would-be heirs agreed to help him in exchange for acut of the loot.

Game participants are invited to a reading of the will where they areidentified as a potential heir to the Wonkers family fortune. Eachparticipant is challenged to complete the Wonkers Worldwide Worthinesstest and to thereby obtain the secret Swiss account number(s)/passwordsand the Wonkers fortunes before Iggy does. The first participant whosuccessfully completes the challenge gets all the loot. However, thefailure to complete any single challenge results in immediate andpermanent disinheritance.

The challenges are arranged so that only those who are smart, diligentand who are pure of heart and mind (etc., etc . . . ) will be able tosuccessfully complete the worthiness challenge. Thus, participants mustfaithfully carry out and complete each challenge in the exact mannerspecified. Any changes or deviations will result in failure. The game isalso set up to provide many temptations along the way to cut corners,cheat or trick ones way through the various challenges. Players must notsuccumb to these temptations, lest they be immediately and permanentlydisinherited. Players must also be careful not to reveal any helpfulinformation to Iggy or his posse of greedy co-conspirators, lest theyget to the loot first.

Game Play

Each game participant receives a card, token, key chain, or other gamingimplement (“game token”). This token contains a unique identificationnumber (preferably an RFID tag, mag-strip card, bar-coded card, or thelike) which is used to uniquely identify each player throughout the gameplay. Optionally, a user-selected password is associated with each tokenso that it can only be used or activated by its proper owner. The tokenallows players to interact with one or more game enabledreaders/stations and/or other compatible devices distributed throughouta selected geographic region (e.g., book stores, theme parks, familyentertainment centers, movie theaters, fast-food venues, internet,arcades, etc.).

Preferably, each token represents a specific character in the treasurehunt game. Thus, play participants would preferably select whichcharacter he or she would like to play. For example, possible charactersmay include Eddy the Electrician, Abe the Accountant, Martha theMusician, Doctor Dave, Nurse Betty, Policeman Paul, etc. Each characterwould come with a unique story about who they are, how they were relatedto Willy and, most importantly, a touching little vignette about Willythat no one else knows. Hidden within each story is one or more uniqueclues that are necessary to solve the various challenges the playerswill soon face. The game is preferably arranged and set up so that cluescan only be successfully used by the particular character(s) wholegitimately possesses them. If any other character illegitimatelyobtains these secret clues and tries to use them in the game, he or shewill fail the challenge.

Preferably all of the clues (and possibly other, extrinsic clues) arerequired to complete the quest. Thus, players will preferably need tocooperate with other players in order to receive and exchange cluesand/or other specified assistance “legitimately” to enable each playerto advance in the game. For example, assume that Policeman Paul knowsthat Willy detests white chocolate. Nurse Betty knows that Willy can'tstand licorice. In the course of game play, Betty and Paul independentlydetermine that one of the secret passwords must be either: (1) JellyBean; (2) White Chocolate; or (3) Licorice. Neither Betty or Paul,alone, knows the correct answer (they can try to “trick” the game byguessing, but then they will lose the quest). But, together they cansolve the challenge. Betty can share her information with Paul and Paulcan share his information with Betty.

Preferably, any sharing of information must be conducted within therules of the game to be “legitimate” and recognized by the game. Thus,preferably, players cannot advance in the game simply by getting therelevant clue info from the internet or by asking other players. To belegitimate and, therefore, recognized by the game, both players of theBetty and Paul characters must present their tokens together to anenabled token reader (e.g., at a local game center or theme park) andrequest that the information be shared between the characters. Once theinformation is legitimately exchanged within the context of the game, itthen can be used by each player/character to solve further challengesand to thereby advance in the game. However, if a player guesses theanswer (even correctly) or if the clue information is obtainedillegitimately, then the player preferably loses the quest and mustpurchase a new token.

More complex sharing scenarios could also be developed. For example,certain unique clue information could be revealed only during the courseof game play and only to certain characters. Other characters would needthis clue information to advance in the game and would have to figureout which other character(s) have the information they need. They wouldthen need to find and contact another player (a friend, acquaintance,classmate, etc.) who has the appropriate character token and who hassuccessfully found the clue information they need. Then they would needto meet in order to make the necessary exchange transaction.

For instance, assume in the above example that Paul had information tohelp Betty, but Betty did not have the information needed to help Paul.Betty had information to help Martha and Martha had the information tohelp Paul. Now, the players must somehow negotiate a mutual three-wayexchange that works for everyone's interest. The resulting transactionscould be simple bartering (information in exchange for information/help)and/or there could be some kind of currency involved, such as bonuspoints or the like, whereby players could negotiate and accumulatepoints each time they help other players. One goal of the game is toencourage playful interaction among the players by requiring them towork with (and possibly negotiate against) other players to see who canget the information and points they need to advance in the game.

Alternatively, players may need to acquire or learn some special skillor knowledge that is necessary to interpret a clue. For example, oneplayer may get a clue m a strange foreign language and another playerhappens to be (or chooses to become within the context of the game) aninternational language expert who can interpret the foreign-languageclue. Both players need to somehow find and cooperate with one anotherin order to advance in the game. Players can (and preferably must) alsoobtain certain information or clues from other extrinsic sources inorder to further advance in the game. These can be simple extrinsicsources like a dictionary, encyclopedia, a local library or museum, or asecret code word printed on a participating retail store purchasereceipt.

Preferably, the game is self-policing. That is, it “knows” when anexchange of information and/or other help is legitimately given (i.e.conducted within the rules of the game) and can react accordingly. Forexample, the game may require both players (or multiple players, if morethan two are involved) to simultaneously present their tokens to anenabled reader/device. The reader would then be able to verify theidentities of each character/player, extract relevant info, token ID,user password, etc., and write the relevant new info to each player'stoken. Once the transaction is completed, each player would thenlegitimately possess and be able to use the information stored on his orher token to advance further in the game using any other gaming devicethat can read the token.

Alternatively, the same sequence can be followed as described above,except that the token is used only to verify character and playeridentities (e.g. an RFID read only tag). All other relevant informationis stored on in a local and/or central database. The data-base keepstrack of each individual player's progress, what information/clues theyhave learned, who they have interacted with, points accumulated, etc.Thus, game play can proceed on any device that can communicate via theinternet, such as a home computer, game console, internet appliance,etc.

Alternatively, an authenticating password may be used in conjunctionwith each RFID identifying token. When two or more players present theirtokens to an enabled reader device as in the examples described above,each player is given an authenticating password, which the player(s)then can enter into any other gaming platform. The password may be analpha-numeric code that is mathematically derived from the unique IDnumbers of each participating player involved in the sharingtransaction. Thus, it is unique to the specific players involved in theauthorized exchange transaction and cannot be used by other players(even if they copy or seal the password). When the alpha-numeric numberis subsequently re-entered into another device (e.g., a home gameconsole or home computer) by the authorized player, the game softwarecan reverse the mathematical algorithm using the players unique ID(previously entered at the beginning of the game) and thereby determineand/or validate the event(s) that generated the authenticating password.Existing public-key/private-key encryption algorithms and/or the likecould be used for encoding and decoding the authenticating passwords.Optionally, each authenticating password could have a “shelf life” ofany desired length of time such that it must be used within an hour, aday, a week, a month, etc. This might help move the game along bykeeping players on their toes. Authenticating passwords could be easilyprinted and dispensed on special tickets or stickers, which can becollected. Alternatively, and/or in addition, authenticating passwordscan be readily printed on any ordinary cash register receipt as part ofany purchase transaction (e.g. at a fast food or other retailestablishment).

The treasure hunt game may be continual in its progression or it may beorchestrated in “real time” via the internet or any other massdistribution/communication medium, such as TV commercials, mini-gameboyinstallments, computer-animated MPEG videos. For example, each gamemight last several days/weeks/months, and may be launched in conjunctionwith a promotional/advertising campaign for a complementing movie or thelike. In that event, players would preferably sign up in advance toreceive their tokens to play the game or they can purchase one or moretokens at any participating gaming outlet before or during the game.

Of course, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that theunderlying concept of an RFID trading card 900 and card game is notlimited to cards depicting fantasy characters or objects, but may beimplemented in a wide variety of alternative embodiments, includingsporting cards, baseball, football and hockey cards, movie charactercards, dinosaur cards, educational cards and the like. If desired, anynumber of other suitable collectible/tradable tokens or trinkets mayalso be provided with a similar RFID tag device in accordance with theteachings of the present invention as dictated by consumer tastes andmarket demand.

Although this invention has been disclosed in the context of certainpreferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood by thoseskilled in the art that the present invention extends beyond thespecifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodimentsand/or uses of the invention and obvious modifications and equivalentsthereof. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present inventionherein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosedembodiments described above, but should be determined only by a fairreading of the claims that follow.

EXAMPLE 4

Game participants are immersed in a “whodunit” murder mystery. Forexample, this interactive adventure game could be based on the popularboard game. “Clue™.” Players learn that a murder has been committed andthey must figure out who did it, in what room, with what weapon, etc.The game is preferably live-action interactive with simulated live-newscasts, letters, telephone calls, etc.

Sample Storyline

Major Mayonnaise is found dead in his palatial mansion of an apparentmassive coronary. However, clues at the crime scene indicate that thiswas in fact a carefully planned murder. Based on the indisputablephysical evidence, the murder could only have been committed by one ofeight possible suspects.

It is common knowledge that each player hated Mayonnaise and, thus, eachplayer has been identified as a suspect in the murder. Thus, the missionis to figure out WHO DUNIT! and how.

Game Play

Game play is essentially as described above in connection with Example3. Players receive game tokens, cards, bands or the like uniquelyidentifying each player. Preferably, each token represents one of theeight suspect characters in the Whodunit game. As in Example 3, above,each character would preferably have a unique story about who they are,where they were on the night of the murder, and why they dislikeMayonnaise. Hidden within the collective stories are the unique cluesnecessary to solve the murder mystery challenge. Players cooperate byexchanging clues and other information needed to solve the mystery. Asin Example 3, the game is preferably set up and organized so thatrelevant clues can only be successfully used by the particularcharacter(s) who legitimately possess them. Any player who tries tocheat will preferably be disqualified or otherwise prevented fromadvancing in the game.

EXAMPLE 5

Game participants are immersed in a magical computer adventure game. Forexample, this Interactive adventure game could be based on the popular“Harry Potter™” series of children's books by J. K. Rowling and licensedcomputer games by Electronic Arts. Players learn basic magic skills asthey progress through an adventure game and solve one or morechallenges/puzzles.

Sample Storyline

Players are students enrolled at the Hogwart school of witchery wherethey are learning witchcraft, spell casting, secret messaging and thelike. But something terrible and evil has happened and it is up to eachplayer and their fellow classmates to solve the mystery and ferret outthe evil-doer and save the school.

Game Play

Game play is essentially as described above in connection with Examples3 and 4. Players preferably receive game tokens, cards, bands and/or thelike uniquely identifying each player. Each token provides a uniqueidentifier for the player and preferably can store his or her progressin the game. Each player begins the adventure with essentially the samemagic powers, skills and abilities. Each player may also receive a magicwand or other similar device which the players mush learn to use toaccomplish certain goals set out in the game.

Players cooperate by exchanging clues and other information needed tosolve the mystery. As in Examples 3 and 4, the game is preferablyorganized so that relevant clues can only be successfully used by theparticular character(s) who legitimately possess them. Any player whotries to cheat will preferably be disqualified or otherwise preventedfrom advancing in the game.

An authenticating password system is preferably used to verify orauthenticate game events and to thereby discourage cheating. Thesesecret codes or pass words may be obtained from any participating gamevenue (e.g., fast food venues, toy store, theme parks, etc.) or othersources that will become obvious once the game is implemented. Once asecret password is obtained, players can enter it into a speciallyenabled home computer game, arcade game, portable gaming device, orother device, to get secret powers and/or to find secret parts of thegame otherwise unobtainable without the secret code. For example, aplayer may buy a meal from a fast-food vendor and as part of the mealpackage would receive a token and/or a secret code. The secret codepreferably may be used to access a secret portion or level of a popularcomputer adventure game.

Most preferably (although not required) authenticating passwords areunique or semi-unique to the player(s) who possess them. For example,each password may be an alpha-numeric code that is mathematicallyderived from a unique ID number stored on each participating playerstoken or from a password the player selects. Thus, the secret code ismore-or-less unique to the specific player(s) involved in anauthenticated game event and preferably cannot be used by other players(even if they copy or steal the secret code). When the alpha-numericnumber is subsequently re-entered into another device (e.g., a home gameconsole or home computer) by the authorized player, the game softwarecan reverse the mathematical algorithm using the players unique ID oruser-selected password (this may or may not be previously entered at thebeginning of the game) and thereby determine and/or validate the gameevent(s) that generated the authenticating password. Existingpublic-key/private-key encryption algorithms and/or the like could beused for encoding and decoding the authenticating passwords.

Optionally, each authenticating password could have a “shelf life” ofany desired length of time such that it must be used within an hour, aday, a week, a month, etc. This might help move the game along bykeeping players on their toes. Authenticating passwords could be easilyprinted and dispensed on special tickets or stickers, which can becollected. Alternatively, and/or in addition, authenticating passwordscan be readily printed on any ordinary cash register receipt as part ofany purchase transaction (e.g. at a fast food or other retailestablishment).

To make the password system more convenient, the token device mayoptionally include one or more entry buttons and an LCD display. Whenplayers insert the token into an enabled reader, the secret code(s) aredownloaded automatically to the token device and can be displayed on theLCD screen. The token thus becomes a secret encoder/decoder device thatallows players to electronically transport and send/receive secretmessages and codes to each other that can only be read byplayers/devices that possess the correct authenticating code. Anoptional communication port may allow secret codes to be downloadeddirectly to a computer game, portable game unit or other devices using,for example, a standard USB communication port.

1.-20. (canceled)
 21. An interactive gaming system for entertaining oneor more game participants playing a game wherein at least a firstportion of said game is virtually represented in a virtual playenvironment and wherein at least a second portion of said game isphysically represented in a physical play environment, said interactivegaming system comprising: a plurality of physical gaming items eachcomprising: i) a wirelessly-powered radio frequency (RF) transceiverconfigured to provide two-way wireless communications with awireless-compatible device, ii) a unique identification number uniquelyidentifying said corresponding gaming item, and iii) non-volatile memoryconfigured to store selected game-relevant information associated withsaid corresponding gaming item; and at least one wireless-compatiblegame device configured to wirelessly power and provide two-way wirelesscommunications with each said gaming item over a limited communicationrange of less than 60 cm and wherein said wireless communication isfacilitated at least in part through inductive coupling between said atleast one wireless-compatible game device and each said RF transceiverwhen each said associated gaming item is provided within said limitedcommunication range of said at least one game device, and wherein saidat least one game device is further configured to ascertain saidselected game-relevant information from each said gaming item and tocommunicate said selected game-relevant information to a compatiblegaming platform comprising one or more of: a game console, a homecomputer, or a hand-held gaming device; and wherein said plurality ofphysical gaming items comprises at least one player item depicting orrepresenting a role-play character played by a corresponding gameparticipant in said game and wherein said at least one player item isfurther configured to store selected information indicating progress ordevelopment of said corresponding role-play character played by saidgame participant in said game, and wherein said plurality of physicalgaming items comprises at least one access item having stored therein anencrypted code configured to be decrypted or authenticated to therebyenable said game participant to access additional features or portionsof said game.
 22. The interactive gaming system of claim 21 wherein saidplurality of physical gaming items comprises at least one of: a gametoken, or a toy.
 23. The interactive gaming system of claim 22 whereinsaid plurality of physical gaming items comprises at least one toy andwherein said at least one toy is configured to generate one or more of:sound, vibration, or lighting effects in accordance with said game. 24.The interactive gaming system of claim 22 wherein said at least one gametoken or toy is a promotional or give-away item provided as part of aretail purchase transaction.
 25. The interactive gaming system of claim21 wherein said at least one wireless-compatible game device is a gamecontroller.
 26. The interactive gaming system of claim 21 wherein saidat least one player item comprises programmable non-volatile memory andwherein said selected game-relevant information comprises game orcharacter progress or character attributes developed by said gameparticipant while playing said game using said at least one player item.27. The interactive gaming system of claim 26 wherein said selectedgame-relevant information further comprises an authenticating passcodethat communicates or authenticates said game or character progress andwherein said at least one wireless-compatible game device is configuredto automatically download said authenticating passcode to said at leastone player item when said at least one player item is provided withinsaid limited communication range of said at least one game device. 28.The interactive gaming system of claim 27 wherein said authenticatingpasscode comprises encrypted information indicating completion of one ormore game events and wherein said encrypted information is configured tobe decrypted or authenticated using an encryption key that is unique tosaid at least one player item.
 29. The interactive gaming system ofclaim 21 wherein said encrypted code is configured to be decrypted orauthenticated using an encryption key that is unique to said at leastone access item.
 30. The interactive gaming system of claim 29 whereinsaid encrypted code is configured to be decrypted or authenticated usinga multi-key encryption algorithm comprising at least a first encryptionkey and at least a second encryption key and wherein at least said firstencryption key can be ascertained from information stored in saidnon-volatile memory of said at least one access item.
 31. Theinteractive gaming system of claim 30 wherein at least one of said firstor second encryption keys is based at least in part on said uniqueidentification number of said at least one access item.
 32. Theinteractive gaming system of claim 21 in combination with game softwarecomprising program instructions stored in a non-transient mediumconfigured to cause or direct said compatible gaming platform to: i)generate a virtual play environment comprising one or morecomputer-animated effects, ii) track said selected informationindicating said progress or development of said corresponding role-playcharacter within said virtual play environment, iii) store said selectedinformation in said non-volatile memory of said corresponding physicalgaming item; and iv) execute an encryption algorithm using at least saidselected information to generate an authenticating passcode configuredto communicate or authenticate said selected information.
 33. Theinteractive gaming system of claim 21 further comprising an imagecapture system configured to automatically capture and display one ormore digital images of a game participant playing said game.
 34. Theinteractive gaming system of claim 21 further comprising one or moretickets or stickers comprising a printed access code configured toenable said game participant to access additional game features bymanually entering said printed access code into said compatible gamingplatform.
 35. A method for playing an interactive game combining bothvirtual and physical play elements, said method comprising: configuringa first gaming platform to produce a virtual play environment comprisingone or more computer-animated effects in accordance with an interactivegame adapted to be played by one or more game participants; providing aplurality of physical gaming items each comprising: i) awirelessly-powered radio frequency (RF) transceiver configured toprovide two-way wireless communications with a wireless-compatibledevice, ii) a unique identification number uniquely identifying saidcorresponding gaming item, and iii) non-volatile memory configured tostore selected game-relevant information associated with saidcorresponding gaming item; providing an intermediary gaming deviceconfigured to wirelessly power and provide two-way wirelesscommunications with said plurality of physical gaming items over alimited communication range of less than 60 cm; selecting from saidplurality of physical gaming items a first gaming item depicting orrepresenting a game-associated character configured to be played by agame participant in said game; placing said first gaming item withinsaid communication range of said intermediary gaming device; causing orallowing said intermediary gaming device to store in said non-volatilememory of said first gaming item selected information indicatingprogress or development of said corresponding game-associated characteras said game is played by said game participant using said first gamingplatform and wherein said selected information comprises at least inpart encrypted information configured to be decrypted or authenticatedusing an encryption key that is unique to said first gaming item; andusing said first gaming item to communicate or authenticate saidselected information to a second gaming platform that is different fromsaid first gaming platform.
 36. The method of claim 35 wherein saidfirst gaming platform or said second gaming platform comprises one ormore of: a video game console, a home game console, a personal computer,a handheld game unit, an internet gaming site, or a live-action game.37. The method of claim 36 wherein said first gaming platform comprisesa game console and wherein said second gaming platform comprises one ormore of: a personal computer, a handheld game unit, an internet gamingsite, or a live-action game.
 38. The method of claim 35 wherein saidencrypted information is further configured to be decrypted orauthenticated using a multi-key encryption algorithm based on at leastone public encryption key and at least one private encryption key andwherein said public encryption key is stored in said non-volatile memoryof said first gaming item.
 39. The method of claim 35 wherein saidencryption key is based at least in part on said unique identificationnumber of said first gaming item.
 40. The method of claim 35 furthercomprising causing or allowing said first or second gaming platform toprint or display said encrypted information as an alpha-numeric code.41. The method of claim 40 further comprising manually entering saidalpha-numeric code into a third gaming platform to thereby communicateor authenticate said character progress or development to said thirdgaming platform and wherein said third gaming platform is different fromsaid first gaming platform and said second gaming platform.
 42. Themethod of claim 35 wherein said plurality of physical gaming itemscomprises at least one of: a game token, or a toy.
 43. The method ofclaim 35 wherein said plurality of physical gaming items comprises atleast one of: a card, a sticker, a badge, or a map.
 44. The method ofclaim 35 further comprising: selecting from said plurality of physicalgaming items a second gaming item having stored therein a unique accesscode; placing said second gaming item within said communication range ofsaid intermediary gaming device; causing or allowing said intermediarygaming device to ascertain said unique access code; and accessingadditional features or portions of said game based on said ascertainedunique access code.
 45. The method of claim 44 wherein said uniqueaccess code comprises an encrypted code configured to be decrypted orauthenticated using an encryption key that is unique to said secondgaming item and further comprising causing or allowing said intermediarygaming device to ascertain said encryption key from said second gamingitem and to use said ascertained encryption key to decrypt orauthenticate said unique access code.
 46. A promotional gaming itemconfigured to be provided as part of a retail purchase transaction, saidpromotional gaming item comprising: a game token or toy configured foruse in conjunction with one or more compatible gaming platformscomprising one or more of: a home game console, a personal computer, ahandheld game unit, or a live-action game attraction; awirelessly-powered radio frequency (RF) transceiver configured toprovide two-way wireless communications with a wireless-compatiblereader device associated with said one or more compatible gamingplatforms over a limited communication range of less than 60 cm;non-volatile memory configured to store selected game-relevantinformation uniquely associated with said promotional gaming item; andat least one item of encrypted information stored in said non-volatilememory, said encrypted information configured to be decrypted orauthenticated using an encryption algorithm based on at least oneencryption key that is uniquely associated with said promotional gamingitem and which can be ascertained from information stored in saidnon-volatile memory thereof, and wherein said encrypted information isfurther configured when decrypted or authenticated to enable a gameparticipant to access certain features or portions of acomputer-animated game carried out on said one or more compatible gamingplatforms.
 47. The promotional gaming item of claim 46 wherein said gametoken or toy comprises a collectible token depicting or representing aperson or character relevant to said computer-animated game.
 48. Thepromotional gaming item of claim 46 further comprising a printed accesscode configured to enable said game participant to access certainfeatures or portions of said computer-animated game by manually enteringsaid printed access code into said one or more compatible gamingplatforms.
 49. The promotional gaming item of claim 46 wherein saidretail purchase transaction comprises a purchase of a packaged retailproduct from a retail vendor and wherein said packaged retail productcomprises a retail item in combination with said promotional gamingitem.
 50. The promotional gaming item of claim 46 wherein said retailpurchase transaction comprises a purchase of a meal package from a foodvendor and wherein said meal package comprises a meal in combinationwith said promotional gaming item.
 51. The promotional gaming item ofclaim 46 wherein said encrypted information is configured to bedecrypted or authenticated using a multi-key encryption algorithm thatuses at least a first key and a second key and wherein at least saidfirst key is ascertainable from information stored in said non-volatilememory.
 52. The promotional gaming item of claim 51 wherein at least oneof said first key or said second key comprises a unique identificationnumber stored in said non-volatile memory.
 53. The promotional gamingitem of claim 46 in combination with a wireless-compatible reader deviceconfigured to wirelessly power and provide two-way wirelesscommunications with said promotional gaming item over a limitedcommunication range of less than 60 cm and wherein said two-way wirelesscommunications is facilitated at least in part through inductivecoupling between said reader device and said RF transceiver when saidpromotional gaming item is provided within said limited communicationrange of said reader device, and wherein said reader device is furtherconfigured to ascertain said selected game-relevant information fromsaid promotional gaming item and to communicate said selectedgame-relevant information to said one or more compatible gamingplatforms to thereby enable said game participant to access certainfeatures or portions of said computer-animated game carried out on saidone or more compatible gaming platforms.
 54. The combination of claim 53further comprising one or more additional gaming items each comprising:a wirelessly-powered radio frequency (RF) transceiver configured toprovide two-way wireless communications with said reader device, aunique identification number uniquely identifying said correspondingadditional gaming item, and non-volatile memory configured to storeselected game-relevant information associated with said correspondingadditional gaming item, and wherein said additional gaming itemscomprise at least one player item depicting or representing a role-playcharacter played by said game participant in said game and wherein saidat least one player item is configured to store selected informationindicating progress or development of said corresponding role-playcharacter played by said game participant in said game.
 55. A method forplaying an interactive game which combines both virtual and physicalplay aspects, said method comprising: configuring a gaming platform toproduce a virtual play environment comprising one or morecomputer-animated effects in accordance with an interactive game adaptedto be played by one or more game participants; providing a plurality ofphysical gaming items each comprising: i) a wirelessly-powered radiofrequency (RF) transceiver configured to provide two-way wirelesscommunications with a wireless-compatible device, ii) a uniqueidentification number identifying said corresponding gaming item, andiii) non-volatile memory configured to store selected game-relevantinformation associated with said corresponding gaming item, and whereina first set of said plurality of physical gaming items comprises one ormore player items each depicting or representing a role-play characterplayed by a corresponding game participant in said game and wherein asecond set of said plurality of physical gaming items comprises one ormore access items each having stored therein a unique access codeconfigured to enable a game participant to access one or more additionalfeatures or portions of said game; communicatively coupling a readerdevice to said gaming platform, said reader device configured towirelessly power and provide two-way wireless communications with eachsaid gaming item over a limited communication range of less than 60 cm;selecting a player item from said first set of gaming items; selectingan access item from said second set of gaming items; placing saidselected player item and said selected access item within saidcommunication range of said reader device; and causing or allowing saidreader device to i) ascertain said unique access code from said selectedaccess item and communicate said unique access code to said gamingplatform to enable said game participant to access said one or moreadditional features or portions of said game, and ii) store in saidnon-volatile memory of said player item selected information indicatingprogress or development of said corresponding role-play character as itis played by said game participant in said game.
 56. The method of claim55 wherein said gaming platform comprises one or more of: a home gameconsole, a personal computer, a handheld game unit, or a live-actiongame attraction.
 57. The method of claim 55 wherein said unique accesscode comprises an encrypted code and further comprising decrypting orauthenticating said encrypted code using a multi-key encryptionalgorithm based on at least a first encryption key and a secondencryption key and wherein at least said first encryption key isascertainable from information stored in said non-volatile memory ofsaid selected access item.
 58. The method of claim 57 wherein said firstencryption key or said second encryption key is based at least in parton said unique identification number of said selected access item. 59.The method of claim 55 wherein said plurality of physical gaming itemscomprises at least one of: a game token, or a toy.
 60. The method ofclaim 55 wherein said plurality of physical gaming items comprises atleast one of: a card, a sticker, a badge, or a map.
 61. The method ofclaim 55 wherein said selected access item further comprises a printedaccess code and further comprising manually entering said printed accesscode into said gaming platform to enable said game participant to accesssaid one or more additional features or portions of said game.
 62. Themethod of claim 55 wherein at least one of said plurality of physicalgaming items comprises a promotional or give-away item provided as partof a retail purchase transaction.
 63. The method of claim 55 wherein atleast a portion of said selected information indicating said progress ordevelopment of said corresponding role-play character comprisesencrypted information and wherein said encrypted information isconfigured to be decrypted or authenticated using an encryption key thatis unique to said selected player item.
 64. The method of claim 55wherein said gaming platform comprises a first gaming platform and asecond gaming platform and further comprising using said selected playeritem to communicate or authenticate to said second gaming platform saidprogress or development of said corresponding role-play character playedby said game participant using said first gaming platform.